How to Detect Gum Disease

Gums are an anchor of our teeth. Just as roots hold trees firmly to the ground, it is our gums which fix the teeth to the jaw. Keeping gums healthy is very important and this governs the overall oral health. In fact, it is as important to look after gums as it is to look after teeth. Surveys reveal that more people are falling easy prey to gum diseases. The matter of concern is that gum diseases are no longer restricted only to the aged. Even young people and generally teenagers develop this condition. This article will explain how you can detect gum disease via the symptoms; see your dentist quickly and regularly!

Steps,

• Get regular check-ups. Early detection of symptoms helps in quick recovery of the problem. The symptoms of these diseases are sometimes very evident, but not always. This is where medical intervention may be needed.
• Know the symptoms that identify the onset of gum disease. The condition actually begins with the deposition of plaque (a slimy substance) around the teeth. This is a transparent layer and hence sometimes goes un-noticed. Plaque is the media where the harmful bacteria thrive and form colonies. These bacteria produce acids which not only damage the tooth enamel but also affect the gums. Here are the various stages of gum disease, with symptoms to alert you:                                        (a)Gingivitis and Periodontitis: Gingivitis is a condition of the gums which is not so easy to detect and only an expert can make a proper judgment. The symptoms of gingivitis are sometimes very mild, though in the long run it can prove harmful. Spongy gums, bleeding gums or even mild swelling of gums can be the beginning of this condition. The condition is worsened with plaque deposits that continuously damage the gums.                                                                                                          (b)Periodontitis is a more serious condition as compared to gingivitis. It not only affects the gums but also the jaw bones. The condition needs quick medical attention and if not treated early can pose more serious problems. Periodontitis causes the gums to bleed and in extreme cases the gums lose the hold on teeth completely. The result is an irreversible loss of teeth. The other symptoms include difficulty in biting and chewing food. This symptom cannot be traced until an expert or a oral surgeon gives an opinion. Special techniques are used by experts to find out if the bite has the proper force or not.          (c)Another problem which is common in most of the gum infections is the exposed roots of teeth. These roots are normally protected under the gum layer. However when the gums are affected, they tend to shrink, exposing these roots. This leads to increased sensitivity to extreme temperatures and difficulty in eating as well.

Source: Wikihow.